Australia's Outback Northern Territory

The Northern Territory is where travelers go to see authentic Australia. From the tropical Top End to the fiery Red Centre, the experiences in the “NT” are as diverse as its natural landscapes. Swim under cascading waterfalls, dine under the desert moon and stars, admire ancient aboriginal rock art and experience the overall contrast of an Outback adventure.

No trip down under is complete without a visit to the spiritual heart of Australia, the Northern Territory. The Territory transcends climates and geographies - from scenic plunge pools in World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, to the iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock) in the Red Centre.

Darwin, the Territory’s vibrant capital city, is a mix of open-air markets, mesmerizing sunsets, aboriginal art galleries and waterfront restaurants. Darwin is also a stepping-stone to some of Australia’s greatest natural playgrounds. Experience world-class barramundi fishing, thrilling airboat safaris, or take a short trip to unwind under a free-flowing waterfall in Litchfield National Park.

Bring your camera and a sense of adventure to dual World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park. As you walk, fly, drive or hike through the park, you will see native wildlife, ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, wide, meandering rivers and thundering waterfalls.

The outback meets the tropics in Katherine. Head into nearby Nitmiluk National Park to paddle or cruise through the spectacular Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, or hike the trails that follow the Katherine River looking out for rock art.

Further south, Australia’s Red Centre is the real outback! 200,000 square miles of red dirt, blue skies, desert landscapes and more space than Star Wars.

Spend some time in Alice Springs, Australia’s most famous outback town. Enjoy world-famous indigenous art in the town’s galleries, or buy direct from the artist at a nearby community center. Indulge your sense of adventure and hike the popular Larapinta Trail or tour the surrounding East or West MacDonnell Ranges.

Uluru (Ayers Rock) is Australia’s most recognizable, and perhaps the most photographed national landmark. It is located in the heart of Central Australia, and near the equally magnificent Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). Continue east through the Red Centre and experience Watarraka National Park, home to the mighty chasms of Kings Canyon.